Develop as an independent researcher with the support of an expert in Latin American Studies.
Introduction
We’ll provide you with expertise in your selected field, guide you through a programme of directed individualised reading to the selection of a feasible research project, and enable you to complete a substantial piece of research.
You’ll discover how to develop a research proposal, identify relevant evidence and sources, plan and undertake the research, and analyse and present your findings.
Your research activities within Latin American studies will be in the following domains: anthropology, cultural studies, history, literature, politics, and sociology and extend to Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Central America, the Caribbean and southern USA.
Your academic development will benefit from exploring the topic of your research with an acknowledged expert in the field.
You will be prepared to deal with complex issues both systematically and creatively whilst carrying out your research.
At the end of this course, you will feel confident conducting your own independent research in Latin American studies.
What you'll learn
How to create a research proposal
How to conduct a major piece of original research
How to analyse data and present your findings professionally
How to prepare a bibliography
Gain an awareness of academic integrity
Develop the ability to engage with debates.
Course content
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
If you're able to study part-time, you'll
study the same modules as the full-time master's degree over a longer period, usually 24 months. You
can make studying work for you by arranging your personal schedule
around lectures and seminars which take place during the day. After you
complete all the taught modules, you will complete your final
dissertation or project and will celebrate your achievements
at graduation the following term.
Studying part-time means you can study alongside work or any
other life commitments. You will
study the same modules as the full-time master's degree over a longer period, usually 24 months. You
can make studying work for you by arranging your personal schedule
around lectures and seminars which take place during the day. After you
complete all the taught modules, you will complete your final
dissertation or project and will celebrate your achievements
at graduation the following term.
Semester one
Students study one 30-credit core module and one 30-credit research training module, culminating in a 120 credit dissertation.
Compulsory modules
RESEARCH METHODS FOR LATIN AMERICAN STUDIES (LATI503)
Credits: 30 /
Semester: semester 1
This module introduces MA students to research methods in the core disciplines of Latin American Studies, including general study skills, social science, politics, anthropology, history, literature, film and cultural studies. The module and the assessment (a research proposal) serves as preparation for the Dissertation (LATI520).
RESEARCH PROJECT DEVELOPMENT BY DIRECTED STUDY (HLAC503)
Credits: 30 /
Semester: semester 1
In light of the knowledge acquired in your subject / discipline-specific theory module you will be encouraged to consider the appropriate theoretical and methodological approach for your specific research project. Under the guidance of a supervisor with expertise in your research area, you will be guided individually to create and carry through a programme of focused reading which will allow you to develop your knowledge of current approaches to research in your field. Assessment tasks comprise the building blocks necessary for successful completion of your particular project, for example a feasibility study, bibliography or preliminary literature review.
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
Semester two
Compulsory modules
HLC RESEARCH MASTERS DISSERTATION (HLAC501)
Credits: 120 /
Semester: whole session
With expert academic advice, guidance and support throughout the academic year, you will produce an original and extended piece of research which will be a contribution to knowledge in your chosen research field. A major piece of independent study, your dissertation project will require you to identify relevant evidence and sources, and interpret and analyse that data in accordance with research best practice and a firm understanding of disciplinary conventions. The dissertation will provide a firm basis for further academic research or for a career within a research environment.
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
Final project
Over the summer you will work on and complete your dissertation.
Compulsory modules
HLC RESEARCH MASTERS DISSERTATION (HLAC501)
Credits: 120 /
Semester: whole session
With expert academic advice, guidance and support throughout the academic year, you will produce an original and extended piece of research which will be a contribution to knowledge in your chosen research field. A major piece of independent study, your dissertation project will require you to identify relevant evidence and sources, and interpret and analyse that data in accordance with research best practice and a firm understanding of disciplinary conventions. The dissertation will provide a firm basis for further academic research or for a career within a research environment.
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
How you'll learn
The course is delivered through a combination of seminars, one-to-one supervision, small group work and independent study.
The course structure enables a student-centred approach with tailored reading and additional skills development.
How you're assessed
You will be assessed through written work assigned by your tutors in the form of essay and report writing and skills development exercises.
You will conduct presentations throughout the course with your research findings.
Your dissertation will be the main piece of assessed work.
Liverpool Hallmarks
We have a distinctive approach to education, the Liverpool Curriculum Framework, which focuses on research-connected teaching, active learning, and authentic assessment to ensure our students graduate as digitally fluent and confident global citizens.
Your experience
The Department of Languages and Cultures is a small department that maintains a variety of very distinctive areas of strength in research. We offer programmes tailored to the individual and underpinned by a close student-supervisor contact. All of that unfolds in a friendly and supportive atmosphere.
Support for students with differing needs from the Disability advice and guidance team. They can identify and recommend appropriate support provisions for you.
The programme will equip you with professional skills in research and practical analytical techniques and you’ll also develop a wide range of transferable skills. You’ll be able to demonstrate communication skills, problem-solving, time management and the ability to work on your own initiative.
Career support from day one to graduation and beyond
You’ll graduate ready for further study at postgraduate level, including MPhil or PhD research, and prepared for a range of specialised careers.
Fees and funding
Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.
Tuition fees
UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland)
Full-time place, per year
£4,712
Part-time place, per year
£2,356
International fees
Full-time place, per year
£21,850
Part-time place, per year
£10,925
Fees stated are for the 2023-24 academic year.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support.
You will normally need a 2:1 honours degree, or above, or equivalent. This should be in a subject relevant to your proposed field of research.
International qualifications
If you hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, but don’t meet our entry requirements, a Pre-Master’s can help you gain a place. This specialist preparation course for postgraduate study is offered on campus at the University of Liverpool International College, in partnership with Kaplan International Pathways. Although there’s no direct Pre-Master’s route to this MRes, completing a Pre-Master’s pathway can guarantee you a place on many other postgraduate courses at The University of Liverpool.
Liverpool bursts with diversity and creativity which makes it ideal for you to undertake your postgraduate studies and access various opportunities for you and your family.
To fully immerse yourself in the university experience living in halls will keep you close to campus where you can always meet new people. Find your home away from home.
Discover what expenses are covered by the cost of your tuition fees and other finance-related information you may need regarding your studies at Liverpool.
Contact us
Do you have a question about this course? Call or email the student experience team.
